He gave me a wink and plopped a few grapes into his mouth. The Lord next to me became silent and turned away to talk to
the companion on his other side, for which I was grateful. I enjoyed Lord Cole’s company so much more.
“So, Lord Cole, am I under the impression that you are also here to try and win my hand?”
“Oh, is that what this is about? Your brother invited me to keep him company,” he paused, lowering his voice a little, and
leaned in towards me, “But, if I were here for that reason, would that please you?”
My heart danced a little in my chest as his words sank in. Would I be pleased? He was very handsome and so far, had given
a great first impression. However, we barely knew one another, and I ideally wanted to know my soon-to-be husband better
before we were forced to marry.
I didn’t want to discourage him or give him the wrong message, as it did please me that he was here. And it pleased me to
think that maybe he was here for my hand and not just as a friend to Norok.
“It does please me that you are here, my lord.”
“Please, call me Cole.”
His very voice sent shivers down my spine, and I hated how easily I was overcome, simply by a man’s voice, with the way
they dressed, or how they acted. It infuriated me, as sometimes I wished I was like the other ladies of the court. The ones who
knew a man’s touch, what a kiss was like, or how to flirt so easily so I could get anything I wanted.
“I will attempt to.” I smiled, finishing my drink.
Finally, lunch was over, and we headed to the drawing room, where the larger piano could be found. Mother guided me to
it, and I wasn’t allowed to object or refuse. She whispered in my ear how it was a good way to show my talents to my future
husband.
Soon all eyes were on me as everyone waited, watching as I settled myself. It wasn’t often that I played for a crowd.
Sometimes it would be for myself, my tutor, or my family.
Sitting on the edge of the bench, I sat up straight and relaxed my shoulders. Taking in a deep breath, I felt the music begin to
flow out of me. The ivory keys and I were one. This was second nature to me, and soon the world around me melted away.
Playing soft notes to start, I began a darker tune that I wouldn’t normally play in company, but it was what my heart chose to
play. The room clapped lightly as I finished one song and slowly moved into the next.
A cheerier tune that reminded me of sunshine on a lake. I imagined swans drifting across the ripples, and then soon
raindrops would fall from the sky, dancing against the lake.
Once I was finished, I smiled softly and stood bowing a little while the room again clapped. Mother looked seemingly
pleased, and as I caught the eye of Lord Cole, she followed my stare and was soon making her way towards me.
“You must stay away from Lord Cole,” she whispered in my ear, more urgently than I expected.